Bhubaneswar, Sept 9: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Wednesday intensified its opposition to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026, alleging that the amended legislation could undermine Odisha’s constitutional and financial interests.

A BJD delegation met Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati at Lok Bhavan and submitted a memorandum addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, urging the withdrawal of the amended law. Simultaneously, party leaders and workers staged a demonstration outside the Governor’s residence, raising slogans against the legislation.

The regional party claimed that the amendment could adversely affect Odisha’s legitimate rights over its mineral resources and lead to significant financial losses for the State. It highlighted Odisha’s position as one of India’s leading mineral-producing states, with substantial reserves of iron ore, coal, bauxite, chromite and other minerals.

The BJD said mining has historically been a major source of revenue for Odisha and any dilution of the State’s financial rights over mineral resources could have serious implications for its economy.

The party also cited the July 25, 2026 judgment of the Supreme Court’s nine-Judge Constitution Bench, stating that the verdict recognised the power of states to impose taxes and levies on mines and mineral-bearing lands.

The BJD demanded that the amended legislation be withdrawn to protect Odisha’s interests.

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